Accessibility, equitability, and a strong emphasis on a safe learning environment are critical values for the Grace Church Community. The Covid-19 epidemic has threatened these values, and Grace should respond by putting in place a high pass/low pass/fail system for the remainder of the spring semester. 

Grace Church High School has made a concerted, admirable effort since its conception to draw in students from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds. To negate the potentially large disparity this causes, Grace has provided various resources such as iPads, laptops, Wifi, meals, and tutoring in order to ensure Grace can be a place where all students can fully focus on their education. These resources are of the utmost importance in a community that strives to deemphasize socioeconomic status as a decider of scholastic success. 

But now that students are forced to stay home, this delicate balance has been thrown off. Varying access to the internet or electronics, especially when our classes will be held over video chat, is a critical issue. Some students may be unable to tune into classes if they have a less stable connection. Students who rely on the Math and Science Center or the Writing Center for extra help, and who cannot afford to hire private tutors, are left without the help they need. And when these students fail to perform as before in their classes, it will be of no fault of their own. Students with more access to resources will be heavily favored if we move forward with no consideration for these issues. Grace cannot truly determine merit in a situation where students are on uneven footing. 

Additionally, the upheaval caused by the global response to the virus could cause undue stress and confusion in this trying time. Students are now confined to their houses, conserving resources, fearing for their elderly relatives, their situation tentative and uncertain. On top of it all, they will need to quickly adapt to a new system of schooling which very few teachers and students have much experience with. Grades are stressful enough for students without a state of anxiety and unrest; they will become overwhelming if the school chooses to continue on as normal. 

Eliminating this pressure will make students much more prepared and secure in their learning. It is the decision that fits with Grace’s policies of inclusion, fairness, and compassion. Many colleges and other independent schools across the country have made the decision to move to a high pass/low pass/fail grading system for the remainder of the year, and Grace should too.